Game of Thrones season 2 images enter the realm

We don't typically cover a lot of TV news, but it's hard to ignore the rabid fanbase of the Emmy-winning GAME OF THRONES on HBO. With a production value that eclipses most theatrical films and a cast that straight up slays the competition in acting, the show is one of the finest produced series to come along in a while.

Now, we have a slew of images from the second season, featuring a number of new key players that will play a pivotal role in the future of the show. But for how long? Based on the series of fantasy novels by George R.R. Martin, Game of Thrones takes place in the fictional realm of Westeros (and abroad), following the tug-of-war fight to rule the kingdom, which seems to always end in blood and betrayal.

Check out the images below:

Those familiar with the second book in the series, A Clash of Kings, expect a good showing for the Battle of the Blackwater amongst other key events, which I won't spoil with details. However, Alfie Allen who plays Theon Greyjoy had these tidbits to share: "I can tell you it's got a lot of dragons in it," he told E! Online. "It's got a lot of love and a lot of hate. But it's going to be epic."

When asked about his favorite episode of the second season, he mentioned episode 9 and had this to say about it: “Fighting. Killing. Killing and fire."

That sounds about the gist of the Battle of the Blackwater to me, just with a helluva lot more details held back. I'm about as excited to see that episode as I am to see the ending of THE DARK KNIGHT RISES. No, seriously.

The series returns on Sunday, April 1st, 2012 on HBO and season one hits blu ray on March 6, 2012, plenty of time to get caught up and wholly immersed in one of the most kick ass shows ever made.

Probably one of the most uncool things you could do is spoil the twists, turns, deaths, and betrayals of Game of Thrones. They are some of the most shocking and awesome moments. There's a special place in Hell for those who ruin those details...I won't be that guy.